Man ‘buried alive’ in Belfast churchyard for charity stunt

A man has been buried alive for three days at an east Belfast church as part of a stunt to help reach people in despair.

Dubliner John Edwards was buried at Willowfield Parish Church on Wednesday and will stay there until Friday.

Mr Edwards, a former addict, is the founder of charity Walking Free, which aims to help people who are suicidal or have addiction problems.

He says he aims to speak to people “from beyond the grave” and is broadcasting stories of hope from his coffin on his Facebook page.

He said: “I know this is a radical move but people are continually contacting me who are either suicidal or who know friends or family who are. My plan is to speak to them from the grave before they get there and show them hope.”

Rector of Willowfield Church, David McClay said: “The season of Lent is one when Christians talk about dying to ourselves. The message from the grave is one of hope – hope for those who are struggling with addictions, hope for those who feel life is hopeless, and hope of life that is eternal.”